Becoming a VTC Driver with a Tesla Model 3: Cost, Profitability and Comparison with a Thermal Car
The ride-hailing world is evolving rapidly, and many drivers are turning to electric vehicles to reduce their costs and offer a premium experience to their customers. Tesla Model 3 is now one of the most popular choices among VTC drivers in France. But is it really profitable? What are the operating costs compared to a classic thermal sedan like a Peugeot 508 diesel? Let's dive into the numbers.
Purchase cost and depreciation
| Vehicle | Average new purchase price (excluding bonus) | Ecological bonus (up to) | Actual cost after bonus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tesla Model 3 Propulsion | ~42 990 € | -4 000 € | ~38 990 € |
| Peugeot 508 BlueHDi 130 | ~38 000 € | 0 € | ~38 000 € |
➡️ Almost perfect equality on the purchase price after bonus.
The Tesla may be slightly more expensive depending on the options, but benefits from lower usage costs.
Operating cost (over 100 km)
| Spent | Tesla Model 3 | Peugeot 508 Diesel |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | ~2.50 € (electricity) | ~€9.00 (diesel at €1.80/L – 5L/100km) |
| Interview | ~1,50 € | ~4,00 € |
| Total | ~4 € | ~13 € |
🔋 The Tesla Model 3 is nearly 3x less expensive to run.
Maintenance: clear advantage to electric
The Tesla does not have:
-
Engine oil change
-
Timing belt
-
Particulate filter
-
From traditional gearbox
The only regular maintenance: tires, brake fluid, cabin filters.
🔧 Estimated savings: €700 to €1,000 per year.
Autonomy and recharging
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Tesla Model 3 Propulsion : 491 km (WLTP), realistic: ~350–400 km
-
Home charging (11 kW) : ~7 hours = €5 to €6 for 350 km
-
Tesla Supercharger : 0.40 €/kWh = ~12 € for 350 km
No need to refuel at the station = save time precious.
Profitability simulation (full time)
Hypotheses:
-
200 km/day
-
25 days/month
-
60,000 km/year
Annual energy cost + maintenance
| Vehicle | Annual energy | Estimated maintenance | Annual total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tesla M3 | ~750 € | ~500 € | ~1 250 € |
| 508 Diesel | ~2 700 € | ~1 200 € | ~3 900 € |
➡️ Annual savings: €2,650 minimum
Potential VTC income (approximate)
| Scenario | Hours worked/week | Monthly turnover (average) |
|---|---|---|
| Part-time (20 hours) | ~2 000 € | |
| Full time (40 hours) | ~€3,500–€4,500 | |
| Intensive (50h+) | ~€5,000–€6,000 |
➡️ The Tesla allows for better high-end image, sometimes justifying higher prices or more frequent tips.
Ecological bonus and taxation
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Ecological bonus up to €4,000
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TVS exemption for companies
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Free registration card in many regions
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Privileged access to ZFE (low emission zones)
Typical testimony: VTC driver with a Tesla Model 3
"I drive about 5,000 km/month in my Model 3. Before, I had a 508, and I spent €400 on fuel. Today, it's less than €100. My customers love the quietness and modernity of the vehicle. I clearly stand out from the competition."
Resale & Residual Value
Teslas retain a good resale value, especially in the Propulsion or Long Range versions. Electric engines, when well maintained, are more resistant to wear than diesel engines used in urban areas.
Summary: Tesla vs. Thermal – Who Wins?
| Criteria | Tesla Model 3 | Diesel Sedan |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per use | ✅ | ❌ |
| Customer comfort | ✅ | ✔️ |
| Interview | ✅ | ❌ |
| Long-term profitability | ✅ | ❌ |
| Ecological impact | ✅ | ❌ |
| Branding | ✅ | ✔️ |
Conclusion: A strategic choice for VTC drivers
If you are a VTC driver in Lyon or in a large city, the Tesla Model 3 is a great investment. In addition to its savings in use, it attracts customers with its high-end image, its comfort and its technology. Despite a slightly higher purchase cost at the entry, the profitability is very quickly achievedIt is a choice looking to the future.
